Starting Therapy- Claiming Healing

Whenever you experience strong feelings see them as your responsibility to process. If you  notice a reoccurring pattern of experiencing intense emotional reactions this indicates healing is  needed. Therapy is an exploratory space with a professional devoted to your well being and  psychological healing. Therapy can provide a safe space to hold the growth conversations that  will be required and transform these injuries disallowing you to move forward.  

Given all of the unknowns of therapy, it can seem very intimidating choosing to actually get  started. Feelings of uncertainty can definitely detour some from choosing to get started with  therapy at all. Historically, minorities especially have underutilized mental health resources and for many people disclosing personal information is far from the norm. As we explore and take  responsibility for our emotions we increase the chances for future generations to do the same. 

Whether you’re looking to build healthier habits or simply interested in self exploration, successful therapy does require a good client-therapist fit. Finding a good fit isn’t always simple. Allow these tips to help you stay encouraged along the way.  

Assess what you want in a therapist 

Research has proven the most important factor in successful therapeutic outcomes is attributed to  the client-therapist relationship. Some individuals even terminate therapy prematurely due to not fully feeling comfortable because of the drastic differences in characteristics such as age, race,  ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, faith, personality, or lived experiences. It can be important  to consider your personal values to decide if certain characteristics will support you in increasing vulnerability and connection. If you are particular you may benefit from creating a list of non negotiables for getting started with treatment to support you in aligning your vision. On the other  hand, if you are not particular about certain characteristics the likelihood of having a quality  therapeutic relationship with a therapist from a different background is high.  

Assess your motivation  

Most people have already attempted to solve their issues on their own prior to seeking therapy.  Be ready to discuss those outcomes of what helped and what didn’t in your attempts to problem  solve. It isn’t uncommon for individuals, couples, or families to seek support months or even  years later after the problem began so also ask yourself why am I seeking therapy now? Once  you’ve determined your level of motivation be sure to communicate this with your therapist. You  may be encouraged to complete practice assignments outside of session, so be aware of how  ready you actually are to work towards changing your concerns. 

Set expectations 

Be prepared for your therapist to ask what your goals regarding therapy are and brainstorm what  you hope to accomplish prior to your first session. This helps guide the therapeutic experience  and identify a starting place. If you’re clear about your expectations addressing them openly will  increase the likelihood for the therapist to provide feedback on their ability to support you with  your goals.  

Learn about treatment methods 

Treatment planning will be individualized to meet the needs of your specific concerns or issues  and it can be reassuring to familiarize yourself with some of the process beforehand. As you  research it is likely you may be able to access therapist’s preferred style of treatment through  directories, their website, or content they post. Another approach to inquire about treatment  methods or gain insight into their experience collaborating with clients with similar issues can be  during a consultation call or the initial intake session.  

Analyze payment options 

Insurance may be an option for service payment only if the provider is in network with your insurance panel and you meet medical necessity. If you’re interested in using insurance, you may  contact your insurance company directly to request a list of in network therapists in your area. In  the case you find a therapist you’d like to work with outside of your insurance plan your next  step would be to inquire if you have out of network benefits. This may allow you to be  reimbursed after paying the therapist’s out of pocket fee.